Pool Etiquette
How to behave in an Icelandic swimming pool
1
Shower — naked
You must shower naked with soap before entering the pool. No swimwear in the shower.
2
Wash thoroughly
Soap everywhere — armpits, groin, feet. There are signs for it.
3
Enter the pool
Wear swimwear in the pool. Swimwear is only for swimming.
4
Keep calm
No shouting, running or splashing. Pools are for relaxation and swimming.
5
Use hot tubs correctly
Hot tubs are for relaxing. Be considerate — don't take up all the space.
6
Shower again
Shower at least after the pool to rinse off chlorine.
Practical tips
- You can rent towels at most pools (500–1000 ISK).
- Use a hair cap — it's mandatory at many pools.
- Children over 6 go to the women's/men's shower.
- If you have sores or illness — don't enter the pool.
- Pools are the cheapest and most popular sport in Iceland.